101 in Washington

[Flyerone]

We would like to take a trip up to Port Townsend, we have taken the 101 the length of Oregon with no problems, how is it in Washington? Is this trip doable in late winter?

[Tuquala]

Haven't driven 101 the whole WA route, so not an expert!! Be aware that there is about 40% that is inland, not coast driving. A couple of other roads can be used to drive the coast. But it's not nearly as "coastal' as in OR. Road conditions should be good in winter, wet, maybe some snow at a few higher elevations.

[bizzerbiz]

Going to Port Townsend you would take the 101 up the Hood Canal not the coastal 101 unless you plan on seeing the Rain Forest and Olympic National Park. I have traveled both in my 38ftr with toad. No problems. Winter travel on both can get get road closures from slides, so check ahead. We stay at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds in Port Townsend every year for 3/4 days. Perfect location and never any problems.

[Alpine36]

Bizzerbiz is correct, take the inland 101 north of Olympia up the Hood canal. We travel this route frequently all year long, usually boat in tow, without any problems although there are a couple "skinny" bridges up by Hamma Hamma you need to be aware of. Go slow, stop if a log truck or semi is coming the other way.
Most of the 101 is single lane each direction with many slow vehicle turn outs along the way. Geoduck tavern in Brinnon is a great lunch stop.
If for some reason you decide to do the coastal 101 loop from PT, be aware that 101 thru Lake Crescent is under major construction and closed most days until about 2pm. Do not, under any circumstances take the hwy 112 detour. We just made that mistake. Brutal.
On the upside, nothing will seem bad compared to that little sh!7show!
Salt Creek CG near Elwha is very nice (that part of 112 is ok)
Quillyute campground in LaPush is another favorite. Right on the beach.
The tribal fuel stop in Elwha is currently $3.29...
Enjoy the PNW!

[Flyerone]

Thanks! Any places you suggest staying on the inland 101?

[Alpine36]

Originally Posted by Flyerone

Thanks! Any places you suggest staying on the inland 101?

Glen Ayr RV campground just north of Hoodsport is very nice. We've had friends stay there and they've liked it. It's right on the Hood canal. Any closer to the water and you'll be wet. Or they have sites across the street further off the 101. There's another close to Glen Ayr called Rest A While, it's ok.
Dosewallips (sp?) state park is north of both these, pretty nice park with good clam digging. Potlatch State park south of Hoodsport is decent. All these offer full hookups, but local dining options are few.
There's also Little Creek Casino just south of Shelton that accommodates coaches, great buffet starting at 4:30.
Lots to see and do in Port Townsend, have fun.

[Jay D.]

depending on what time in the winter you should watch the weather forecasts as it can get really nasty anywhere on the north coast.
Jay D.

[twogypsies]

If you can, I'd recommend a different timeframe rather than late winter. You could have some very unpleasant weather and being around the coast won't be as enjoyable as in the warmer sun.

Port Townsend and that whole area is a very festive area in summer - lots going on; not so much at other times.